Big Idea Ventures portfolio company Uproot acquired by Califia Farms

Big Idea Ventures, a global investment leader within the food-tech, agri-tech, and materials science sectors, has announced that its portfolio company Uproot Inc was acquired by leading, premium, plant-based beverage brand Califia Farms LLC.

Uproot Inc’s dispensing system provides a convenient and sustainable solution for delivering healthy and delicious plant-based milks to health-conscious consumers. Big Idea Ventures was the company’s first investor and the Uproot team took part in the Big Idea Ventures’ New Protein Fund I accelerator program back in 2020.

“Since they began, the Uproot team has been absolutely focused on providing a range of products which add significant sustainability gains to the food services category and Universities in particular. We believe the Uproot team will be a great addition to Califia Farms,” said Andrew D. Ive, Big Idea Ventures’ Founder & Managing General Partner.

The Uproot team, including the two founders, will be joining the Califia team. Through the acquisition, Califia will expand its portfolio of products and services. Uproot operates over 150 dispensers at leading college and university campuses across the USA and other dining locations.

“Jacob and I founded Uproot to bring great plant-based milks to college dining and other food services," said Kevin Eve, Founder of Uproot. "We are excited to continue this mission with Califia Farms because they share our commitment to nutrition and sustainability. Together with Califia Farms, we will be able to offer more delightful, dispensed plant-based products and better serve our customers!”

Uproot’s acquisition marks the Big Idea Ventures New Protein Fund I’s fifth exit, underscoring its commitment to fostering groundbreaking innovations in the food industry. This achievement not only highlights the potential for future successes but also sets a precedent for the transformative impact the firm aims to continue with its second fund, the Global Food Innovation Fund II. For those interested in learning more about the firm’s mission to revolutionize the global food landscape and explore investment opportunities, please visit our website or contact our team for further information.